Gastrostomy Tube (G-Tube)

A gastrostomy tube is one of the important medical methods that is relied upon in some cases of premature babies or patients who cannot eat normally, to help them feed. It undoubtedly requires great experience and precision in its implementation to protect the baby from any serious complications.

What Is a Gastrostomy Tube?

A Gastrostomy Tube, or G-Tube, is a small, flexible, and hollow feeding tube that is gently inserted through the skin and stomach wall, so that food reaches the patient’s stomach directly, as in some cases of premature babies. It is done through a procedure known as endoscopy.

Who Needs a G-Tube?

Many medical conditions may require the use of G-tube placement, including:

• Premature babies who cannot breastfeed normally.
• Patients with defects in the mouth, esophagus, or stomach.
• People with digestive problems who cannot swallow properly.
• Patients who cannot take in sufficient amounts of food by mouth. 

This gastrostomy feeding procedure may be used for individuals who frequently aspirate food while eating.

 

Also read: How to Take Care of a Premature Baby at Home

 

Why Is the Procedure Performed?

An endoscopic method is used during the Gastrostomy feeding procedure, as follows:

• The patient is first prepared by injecting a painkiller intravenously.
• Anything stuck in the mouth is removed, and a local anesthetic may be sprayed into the mouth to minimize pain during the insertion of the endoscope.
• The surgeon inserts the G-Tube through the skin and abdominal wall directly into the stomach.
• The surgeon waits a period of time before starting to use the tube to feed the patient.

Types of Gastrostomy Tube

The main types of G-tubes include:

1. Low-profile tube

It is also called a button; it is placed at the top of the abdominal wall and held in place inside the stomach using a water-filled balloon.

A special extension tube is also connected when medication or breastfeeding is needed.

2. Long Gastrostomy tubes

These tubes are also inserted surgically, and held in place with a filled water balloon or stitches.

Here, a fixation disc is usually pushed down along the outside of the tube, then rests against the skin of the abdomen. 

Once the balloon and fixation disc are in the correct position, the tube is securely held in place.

 

Also read: Comprehensive emergency obstetric and newborn care

 

Preparing for Gastrostomy Tube Placement

Since each case is different, it is essential to meet with the surgeon, carefully review the case, and then determine the appropriate type of Gastrostomy tube feeding and schedule the surgery.

After surgery, the patient may remain in the hospital for a few days to ensure that his health case is under control.

What Happens During G-Tube Placement?

Here, the endoscope is inserted through the mouth, followed by a gastrostomy tube inserted through the abdominal wall to reach its proper location within the stomach; It is then secured with a suitable method, either a water-filled balloon or stitches.

After the doctor confirms that everything is done correctly, the patient is placed under observation for 5 – 7 days before starting to use the G- tube.

 

Also read: The normal umbilical cord of newborn

 

Are There Any Risks or Complications?

Gastrostomy tube placement is always performed safely and without complications or risks, but sometimes – if the necessary precautions are not taken – the child or patient may be exposed to infection or bleeding during or after surgery.

How Can Parents or Caregivers Help After G-Tube Placement?

There are some necessary instructions and guidelines regarding the use of a gastric feeding tube; it is necessary to know how to care for the skin around the tube, what the symptoms of infection are, and what to do if the tube is pulled out. 

Here, every father, mother, or the patient’s family, in general, must refer to professional caregivers in Dubai that provide reliable home healthcare services and request home nursing services in UAE to provide the best health care for the child and protect him from complications that he may be exposed to if the tube is used incorrectly.

 

Also read: care of newborn with hyperbilirubinemia

 

When Should I Call the Doctor?

Although using a gastrostomy tube correctly is not associated with complications or risks, there are some signs that may indicate the need to consult a doctor and request 24/7 medical assistance at home.

Especially if you notice the tube moving noticeably out of place, there is persistent blood around the tube, or your child’s temperature rises. These are among the most important signs that require urgent medical advice.

Get Safe, Professional G-Tube Care at Home by Experts at Lana Life Care

Lana Life Care is one of the most prominent professional caregivers in Dubai, offering a wide range of healthcare services, including all gastrostomy tube services.

We have specialized surgeons in G-tube surgeries for children and adults, a team of home nursing services, in-home physiotherapy and support, and more, to help you find necessary and reliable healthcare support at the right time.

Don’t hesitate. Contact us now, because your health and safety are the priority.

FAQs

How long can a gastrostomy tube stay in?

It can be left in for 6 – 12 months, according to the type of tube.

What is a gastrostomy tube used for?

It is used mainly as an alternative feeding method for premature babies and some patients

What is the difference between a PEG tube and a gastrostomy tube?

The two are the same thing; both of them are being inserted into the stomach via the skin and the abdominal wall

Can you eat with a gastrostomy?

Yes, in most cases, the patient can still be eating by mouth while using the G-tube at the same time.

What are the risks of G-tube?

In rare cases, the patient may suffer from infection or bleeding.

 

 

Sources:

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002937.htm